Dr Bridget Murphy from The Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (pictured, on the right) is driving an effort to knit a model of a brain, and is seeking knitters (and crochets) to contribute hand-made neurons for project. “Neural Knitworks” is a collaborative project about mind and brain health, part of the Australian National Science Week initiative. The yarny organ will be displayed during the August event, at Hazelhurst Regional Gallery & Arts Centre in New South Wales, Australia. The idea for the project came from textile artist Pat Pillai, and was embraced by the scientific community.

“Art, including simple, everyday craft like knitting, can be a powerful tool to promote health and science,” said Pat, who says the concept of Neural Knitworks appeals to the general public and scientists alike.

The organizers are keen to ensure that the brain is anatomically and scientifically accurate, and experts on neuroscience, microscopy and stem cells have been consulted.

Want to help us out a bit? Well, actually, want to help Kate help designers help you? It makes sense, I promise. Kate — that’s me!, Knitty’s lead tech editor — has just started into a new book project. It’s going to be a book about how to write knitting patterns, aimed at newer designers who want to start submitting their work to publications, or making their designs available through Ravelry or other places.

We’re looking for input from knitters of all levels on what you do and don’t like about knitting patterns. What do you find easy to understand? What’s challenging? What do you feel is important to make a knitting pattern fun and easy to use? Please visit Kate’s blog to leave comments.

Hurray for the knitting protesters! Would five women sitting in an office in Vermont have gotten this attention if they hadn’t been doing something incongruous like knitting? Way to make a point, ladies!